Keeping your garbage disposal in tip-top shape doesn’t have to be a chore. In this guide, Austin Floor & Design gives few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that it runs smoothly and stays reliable. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just someone who loves a clean kitchen, these tips are sure to help you maintain your disposal with minimal effort. By taking just a few minutes to care for your appliance regularly, you’ll not only prevent pesky clogs and jams but also extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal. So, let’s dive in and explore the best ways to keep your disposal humming along!
1. Run Cold Water
One of the most fundamental practices for maintaining your garbage disposal is to always use cold water when it’s running. Cold water helps to solidify any grease or oils that may have entered the unit. When grease is solidified, it is easier for the disposal to chop it up and flush it out of the system. On the other hand, using hot water can melt grease, allowing it to coat the blades and inner walls of the disposal and eventually cause clogs in your pipes.
To ensure optimal performance, run a steady stream of cold water before turning on the disposal. Continue running the water while the disposal is operating and for a few seconds after you turn it off. This practice helps ensure all food particles are flushed through the pipes, reducing the risk of clogs and buildup.
2. Small Batches
Feeding waste into the garbage disposal in small batches rather than all at once is another key to keeping it running smoothly. Overloading the disposal can cause it to jam or clog. By feeding food waste in small amounts, you give the disposal enough time to grind each batch thoroughly, reducing the risk of clogs.
This practice also helps prevent the motor from overheating or becoming overworked. It’s especially important when dealing with fibrous or starchy foods, which can be particularly challenging for the disposal to handle.
3. Avoid Certain Foods
While a garbage disposal is designed to handle food waste, some items are best kept out of it. Avoid putting fibrous foods, such as celery, corn husks, and artichokes, down the disposal. These foods can wrap around the blades and cause the motor to strain or even jam.
Starchy foods like potato peels and pasta should also be avoided as they can form a thick paste and clog the disposal. Similarly, hard materials like bones, fruit pits, and eggshells can dull the blades or cause significant damage to the unit. Instead, dispose of these items in the trash or compost bin.
4. Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh and functioning properly. Over time, food particles can accumulate on the blades and inner walls of the disposal, leading to unpleasant odors and potential clogs. To clean the disposal, grind a few ice cubes and a small amount of rock salt or vinegar. The ice helps to dislodge any stuck food particles, while the salt or vinegar aids in sanitizing the unit.
You can also use a garbage disposal cleaner available in the market or make a homemade cleaner by mixing baking soda and vinegar. Pour the mixture down the disposal, let it sit for a few minutes, then flush it with cold water. This method helps to remove grime and deodorize the disposal.
5. Citrus Peels
For a natural and refreshing way to clean and deodorize your garbage disposal, grind citrus peels, such as lemon or orange peels. The natural oils in the peels help to deodorize the disposal, leaving your kitchen smelling fresh. Moreover, the acid in the citrus peels helps to break down any buildup inside the disposal.
Simply toss a few peels into the disposal and run it with cold water for a few seconds. This not only helps in keeping the disposal clean but also adds a pleasant aroma to your kitchen.
6. Use the Disposal Frequently
Regular use of your garbage disposal helps prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring all parts remain operational. If a disposal is left unused for extended periods, the moving parts can seize up, and any remaining food particles can dry out and cause odors.
By using the disposal frequently, you help keep the blades sharp and the motor functioning properly. It’s a good idea to run the disposal even when you have small amounts of food waste to prevent the buildup of residues and ensure smooth operation.
7. Check for Leaks
Regularly checking your garbage disposal and its plumbing connections for leaks is an essential aspect of maintenance. Over time, seals and connections can wear out or become loose, leading to water leakage. Early detection of leaks can prevent more severe water damage and costly repairs.
To check for leaks, run the disposal with cold water and inspect the unit and its connections under the sink for any signs of water. Look for wet spots or puddles around the disposal and the pipes. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections or replace worn-out seals. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to consult a professional plumber for plumbing service to address the issue.
8. Keep Objects Away
Accidentally dropping non-food items into the garbage disposal can cause significant damage to the unit and the blades. Items like silverware, glass, plastic, or any small objects can become lodged in the disposal, leading to jams or even motor burnout.
To prevent this, always ensure the area around the disposal is clear of any small objects or utensils. Consider installing a sink strainer or stopper when the disposal is not in use to prevent objects from falling into the unit. Additionally, remind family members and guests about the importance of keeping non-food items out of the disposal.
9. Maintenance
Occasionally, the garbage disposal blades may require sharpening to maintain their effectiveness. One simple way to do this is by grinding ice cubes in the disposal. The hardness of the ice helps to sharpen the blades and dislodge any debris stuck to them.
Another maintenance tip is to use a garbage disposal cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar to keep the unit clean and odor-free. Regular maintenance not only keeps the disposal running smoothly but also prolongs its lifespan and prevents unexpected breakdowns.
10. Use it Correctly
Using your garbage disposal correctly involves avoiding the use of harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners. These chemicals can damage the unit and the pipes, leading to corrosion and potential leaks. Instead, opt for natural cleaning methods such as baking soda and vinegar or commercial garbage disposal cleaners specifically designed for the purpose.
Additionally, never use the disposal as a trash can. Only dispose of food waste that the unit is designed to handle. Following these guidelines ensures the disposal functions properly and remains in good condition.
11. Turn the Disposal on Regularly
Even if you don’t use your garbage disposal frequently, it’s a good idea to turn it on periodically to ensure that the motor and blades remain functional. This practice prevents rust and corrosion on the metal parts and keeps the disposal in good working order.
Running the disposal with water for a few seconds even when you don’t have much waste to grind helps prevent any leftover food particles from drying out and causing odors. Regular operation also ensures that all parts of the disposal remain lubricated and free from potential issues.
12. Monitor Strange Noises
Your garbage disposal should operate relatively quietly. If you start hearing unusual noises like grinding, rattling, or humming, it may indicate a problem. Such noises could mean that there is a foreign object stuck in the disposal, the blades are damaged, or the motor is struggling.
If you hear strange noises, turn off the disposal immediately and check for any foreign objects or visible damage. If the issue persists, it’s advisable to consult a professional to diagnose and fix the problem before it leads to more severe damage.
13. Reset as Needed
Most garbage disposals come equipped with a reset button, usually located on the bottom of the unit. If your disposal stops working or jams, the reset button can be used to restart the unit. Before using the reset button, ensure the disposal is turned off and free of any obstructions.
After clearing any debris, press the reset button and turn the unit back on. If the disposal still doesn’t work, it may indicate a more serious issue that requires professional attention. Regularly resetting the disposal when needed can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance and care are essential for keeping your garbage disposal in excellent working condition. By checking for leaks, keeping objects away, performing regular maintenance, using the disposal correctly, turning it on regularly, monitoring for strange noises, and resetting it as needed, you can ensure your disposal remains a reliable and efficient kitchen appliance. Remember, consistent care and attention to detail will help prevent common issues and extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal. If you encounter any problems beyond basic maintenance, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to keep your kitchen running smoothly.